Sabalenka advances to US Open quarterfinals without dropping a set

Sabalenka goes into the match as the clear favorite, but Townsend brings an unpredictable element with her unconventional playing style and strong double-handed backhand. The encounter had already been traded beforehand as one of the most exciting duels of the round, as Townsend's style of play could be unfamiliar for the world number one.

Venue and atmosphere

The winner of this match would face the winner of the match between Serena Williams and another qualifier in the semifinals. This sets the stage for a possible top-level match between Sabalenka and a player from the Williams tradition, which would add extra intrigue to the tournament's progression.

Overall, Sabalenka is presenting herself at the US Open in the form of her life and has not dropped a set so far, underscoring her ambitions for the title in New York. The world number one appears focused, physically fit, and mentally stable.

With her advancement to the quarterfinals, Sabalenka has reached the decisive phase of the tournament, in which every further round amounts to a near-final. Should she reach the semifinals, she could add another Grand Slam title to her career.

Outlook on the quarterfinals

The American crowd in the Arthur Ashe Stadium celebrated the players' performances with great enthusiasm and provided the characteristic atmosphere of the final Grand Slam tournament of the year. The atmosphere in the stands contributed to the high-class performances of the players.

With a view to the upcoming challenges, Sabalenka stressed after the match her determination to continue her run without dropping a set. She knows the strength of her next opponent, but expressed confidence that she could also master this hurdle.

Townsend, on the other hand, appeared relaxed after her advancement to the quarterfinals and pointed to her recent training successes as the foundation for her strong performance. She faces the duel with the world number one with confidence and wants to pull off the surprise.

Overall, the tournament progression so far underscores Sabalenka's dominance as she has marched through the draw without dropping a set. The quarterfinal against Townsend is considered the first serious test on the way to the semifinals in New York.